In response to the country’s escalating waste problem, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. has rolled out its “SM Waste-Free Future” program across its portfolio of malls, residences, offices, hotels, and estates. The initiative, launched in 2024, aims to reduce waste through improved segregation and diversion strategies including recycling, composting, and other sustainable methods.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippines generates over 60,000 metric tons of waste each day—a number expected to increase with ongoing urbanization and economic growth.

At the heart of the program is a standardized waste segregation system using Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC) bins placed in strategic locations. The bins are color-coded and visually labeled to encourage proper disposal among customers, tenants, and employees.

The waste-free campaign is now being adopted across other companies in the SM Group. SM Retail has fully deployed RDC bins in all SM Store branches, while SM Markets continues its reusable bag initiative. Goldilocks, a partner brand, has also implemented the RDC system in its stores nationwide.

SM Prime’s hotels have further expanded the campaign by promoting textile recycling and food waste reduction. The “Tela Tales” project, under SM Hotels, transforms old linens into new sustainable products and creates livelihood opportunities for women in partner communities.

“Waste-Free Future is more than just a program—it’s a mindset shift. And we’re only getting started,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “We call on our tenants, partners, and customers to continue the journey with us—because a truly sustainable future is one we build together.”

SMDC has also partnered with Globe Telecom’s Hapag Movement to rescue surplus food and redistribute it to families experiencing involuntary hunger. Meanwhile, in mall Cyberzones, SM Supermalls continues to work with PLDT and Smart to make e-waste disposal more accessible.

As part of its public outreach, SM Cares has engaged thousands of volunteers through shoreline cleanup drives and targeted youth education campaigns on waste segregation. In a recent celebration of World Oceans Day, more than 5,000 volunteers helped collect over 30,000 kilograms of garbage from 18 SM Supermalls nationwide.

With this initiative, SM Prime envisions a cleaner and more circular future—and it hopes to bring more sectors and communities on board.